PERPETUAL PERENNIALS

Inspired by the rusty patina of three vintage pieces salvaged from farm equipment, René explains any gear-shaped object can be fashioned into a flower. To recreate this trio, gather three similar metal rings or gears and three picket-fence boards. Cut the boards to varying lengths, paint and distress the wood, and let dry. Secure the metal rings to the boards with construction adhesive. Cut lengths of rope for stems and glue them to the boards. Staple the ropes in place to hold the curved shapes while the adhesive sets and remove the staples when the glue dries, or hold the ropes in place with heavy objects until set. René echoed the weathered finish of her rings with leaves fabricated from scrap tin. Cut your own leaf shapes from tin using snips and give them a green hue with a paint wash. Use construction adhesive to attach the leaves along the rope stems. Glue colorful bottle caps inside the rings to complete the floral theme. Attach a sawtooth hanger on the back of each board, or simply prop the boards against a wall. “They’re so unique. I really can honestly say I don’t think anyone’s going to have anything like them,” René remarks.

Reinvent a large galvanized-metal funnel as a plant holder, a colorful signpost of sorts that can uplift any outdoor space. Linda Dresselhaus of Itsy Bits and Pieces was inspired by her utilitarian farm tool to create this new whimsical design. To upcycle your own funnel, adhere bright bottle caps with strong outdoor glue around the outside edge and let dry. Drive a metal mop handle securely into the ground using a rubber mallet, and then slip the funnel onto it. Linda’s funnel has a mesh screen in the spout that stops it from sliding too far down the handle. Make modifications to your funnel if necessary. Fill the elevated container with annuals that coordinate or contrast with your garden’s color palette.

PHOTOGRAPHED AND DESIGNED BY LINDA DRESSELHAUS OF INSTAGRAM.COM/ITSYBITSANDPIECES.